Input device

ABSTRACT

[Problem to be solved] To provide an input device which can input a large number of information codes fast while being carried out by one hand.  
     [Means for solving the problem] An input device  10 , which inputs information into an electronic apparatus, comprises a hold member  16  which is held by one hand; and input keys which are provided on that portion where the input keys are operable by the tip of a finger of the one hand holding the hold member  16 , change into plural states when operated with the tip of the finger unreleased, and are for inputting information into the electronic apparatus which detects the plural states. The input keys are provided approximately perpendicular to an up and down direction of the hold member  1.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an input device which inputsinformation into an electronic apparatus.

BACKGROUND ART

Conventionally, a keyboard which has keys to be stroked by thumbs laidout on the top side, and keys to be stroked by fingers other than thethumbs laid out on the bottom side is known as an input device whichinputs information into an electronic apparatus (see, for example,Patent Literature 1). According to this keyboard, information codes canbe input with the keyboard held by both hands.

There has been known a cellular phone which inputs one information codeby two key depressions with the first key depression taken as a rownumber operation and second key depression taken as a column numberoperation, (see, for example, Patent Literature 2). This cellular phonecan input information codes by one hand, and input the information codesfast in comparison with circulation type information code entry ofrepeating depressing the same key to select an information code.

There is known a game controller comprising analog input sections whichinput analog information like steering information of a car into a gamemachine or the like, and digital input sections which input digitalinformation such as selection information for selecting a game or thelike, and start information for starting the game into the game machineor the like (see, for example, Patent Literature 3).

Further, there is known a remote controller which remotely controls afunction like operation mode of a household electronic appliance, suchas an air conditioner, and ON/OFF or the like of the household applianceor the like by operating a key (see, for example, Patent Literature 4).

Patent Literature 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No.H8-305471

Patent Literature 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No.2003-224629

Patent Literature 3: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No.2002-224444

Patent Literature 4: Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No.2002-188846

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION Problems to be Solved by the Invention

According to those conventional technologies, however, in the case ofthe keyboard, there is a problem such that inputting information codesby one hand is not possible because the keyboard has multiple keyscorresponding to the information codes, and requires a two-handoperation for inputting the information codes. There also is a problemsuch that its use with an analog input device which inputs analoginformation by a mouse or the like interrupts or restricts the entry ofinformation codes.

In the case of the cellular phone, there is a problem that the speed ofthe inputting information codes is slower than the keyboard because thecellular phone has a small number of keys which correspond to theinformation codes, and requires the depression of a key twice forinputting a lot of information codes. There also is a problem such thatits use with an analog input device is difficult.

In the case of the game controller, there is a problem such that becauseof inputting analog information taken into account, the game controllerhas a small number of the digital input sections for inputting digitalinformation, and is not therefore suitable for inputting informationcodes which are digital information.

In the case of the remote controller, there is a problem such that it isnecessary to provide keys in accordance with remotely-controlledfunctions or the like of an apparatus to be remotely controlled, so thatthe greater the number of functions, the larger the board surface onwhich the keys are provided becomes. There also is a problem such thatthey should be provided for each apparatus to be remotely controlled.

The invention has been made in view of such problems, and it is anobject of the invention to provide an input device which can input alarge number of information codes fast while being carried by one hand.

Another object of the invention is to provide an input device with whichentry of information codes and entry of analog information can be madesimultaneously without mutually limiting the inputs.

It is a further object of the invention to provide a universal inputdevice which does not limit its applications.

Means for Solving the Problems

To solve the problems, an input device according to the inventionemploys the following means. That is, the invention as set forth inclaim 1 is characterized in that an input device which inputsinformation into an electronic apparatus comprises a hold member whichis held by one hand; and an operation section which is provided on thatportion where the operation section is operable by a tip of a finger ofthe one hand holding the hold member, changes into plural states whenoperated with the tip of the finger unreleased, and is for inputtinginformation into the electronic apparatus which detects the pluralstates.

The invention as set forth in claim 2 is characterized in that in theinvention according to claim 1, the operation section is providedapproximately perpendicular to an up and down direction of the holdmember.

The invention as set forth in claim 3 is characterized in that an inputdevice which inputs information into an electronic apparatus comprises amain body with an operation section for inputting information into theelectronic apparatus; and a hold member which is held by one hand,wherein the hold member is coupled to the main body, and the main bodyand the hold member are changeable into open mode in which the holdmember can be so held as to make the operation section operable, andclosed mode in which the main body and the hold member are folded overeach other.

The invention as set forth in claim 4 is characterized in that in theinvention according to claim 3, the main body and the hold member arecoupled together via a base member, the main body and said hold memberare rotatably coupled to said base member, and a rotation axis at whichthe main body and the base member are coupled together is approximatelyperpendicular to a rotation axis at which the hold member and the basemember are coupled together, and the main body and the hold memberbecome the open mode of an approximately L shape and closed mode of anapproximately parallelepiped shape as the main body and the hold memberrespectively rotate around the rotation axes.

The invention as set forth in claim 5 is characterized in that an inputdevice which inputs information into an electronic apparatus comprises amain body, a hold member which is held by one hand, and a base memberwhich rotatably couples the main body and the hold member together, andhas an operation section for inputting information into the electronicapparatus, wherein as the main body and the hold member respectivelyrotate around the rotation axes, a rotational axis at which the mainbody and the base member are coupled together and a rotation axis atwhich the hold member and the base member are coupled together areapproximately perpendicular to each other, and the main body and thehold member are changeable into open mode of an approximately L shape inwhich the hold member can be so held as to make the operation sectionoperable, and closed mode in which the main body and the hold member arefolded over each other.

The invention as set forth in claim 6 is characterized in that an inputdevice which inputs information into an electronic apparatus comprises amain body with an operation section for inputting information into theelectronic apparatus, and a hold member which is held by one hand,wherein the main body and the hold member are coupled together via abase member, the main body and the hold member are rotatably coupled tothe base member, and rotation of the rotational axis at which the mainbody and the base member are coupled together and rotation of therotation axis at which the main body and the base member are coupledtogether are interlocked with each other.

The invention as set forth in claim 7 is characterized in that in theinvention according to claim 6, the rotation of the rotational axis atwhich the main body and the base member are coupled together and therotation of the rotational axis at which the hold member and the basemember are coupled together can be locked and unlocked in the open mode.

The invention as set forth in claim 8 is characterized in that in theinvention according to claim 7, the input device comprises an unlock pinwhich unlock a state where the rotation of the rotation axis at whichthe main body and the base member are coupled together is locked withthe rotation of the rotation axis at which the hold member and the basemember in the open mode, wherein the unlock pin is operable by a tip ofany finger of the one hand holding the hold member.

The invention as set forth in claim 9 is characterized in that an inputdevice which inputs information into an electronic apparatus comprises amain body with an operation section for inputting information into theelectronic apparatus, and a hold member which is held by one hand,wherein the operation section is provided on top and bottom sides of themain body.

The invention as set forth in claim 10 is characterized in that in theinvention according to any one of claims 1 to 9, the operation sectionis formed in a shape into which a finger tip fits.

The invention as set forth in claim 11 is characterized in that in theinvention according to any one of claims 1 to 10, the operation sectionis so formed as to be restricted in parallel movement in accordance withthe plural states, and is restorable in a circumferential direction.

The invention as set forth in claim 12 is characterized in that in theinvention according to any one of claims 1 to 11, the operation sectionhas a plurality of switches, and detects the plural states with one ofor the plurality of switches.

The invention as set forth in claim 13 is characterized in that an inputdevice which inputs information into an electronic apparatus comprises:an operation section which changes into plural states and is forinputting information into the electronic apparatus which detects theplural states; and a processor which allocates information codes inassociation with the plural states of the operation section, wherein theinformation codes allocated by the processor are input into theelectronic apparatus.

The invention as set forth in claim 14 is characterized in that in theinvention according to claim 13, the processor has groups of informationcodes which are hierarchized in association with the operation sectionand associated with the plural states of the operation section, anddetermines one information code based on selection of one group ofinformation codes by detecting any of the plural states of the operationsection.

The invention as set forth in claim 15 is characterized in that in theinvention according to claim 14, the processor detects one informationcode by an acceptance-decision operation at the operation section.

The invention as set forth in claim 16 is characterized in that in theinvention according to any one of claims 13 to 15, the processor has aninformation code which is not used in association with the plural statesof the operation section.

The invention as set forth in claim 17 is characterized in that an inputdevice which inputs information into an electronic apparatus comprises:an operation section which changes into plural states, and is forinputting information into the electronic apparatus which detects theplural states; and a processor which allocates information codes inassociation with the plural states of the operation sections, whereinthe processor has information codes for replacing some of theinformation codes.

The invention as set forth in claim 18 is characterized in that in theinvention according to any one of claims 13 to 17, the processor ensuresexternal replacement of the information codes.

The invention as set forth in claim 19 is characterized in that in theinvention according to any one of claims 13 to 18, the information codecomprises a row and a column of Japanese KANA characters.

The invention as set forth in claim 20 is characterized in that in theinvention according to any one of claims 1 to 19, the input devicecomprises a display section which displays the plural states of theoperation section, or associations of the plural states of the operationsection with the information codes allocated by the processor.

The invention as set forth in claim 21 is characterized in that in theinvention according to claim 20, the display section displays the groupsof information codes.

The invention as set forth in claim 22 is characterized in that in theinvention according to claim 21, the display section displays adirection of a force to be applied to a finger tip for operating theoperation section and an arrangement of the groups of information codesin association with each other.

The invention as set forth in claim 23 is characterized in that in theinvention according to claim 21 or 22, the display section emphaticallydisplays the selected group of information codes.

The invention as set forth in claim 24 is characterized in that in theinvention according to any one of claims 21 to 23, the display sectionaggregates a candidate table comprising the groups of information codesat a bottom layer, an input-candidate-information code selected from thecandidate table, and input-decision-information code decided by theacceptance-decision operation and displays them.

The invention as set forth in claim 25 is characterized in that in theinvention according to any one of claims 20 to 24, all of or a part of adisplay of the display section is displayed on a display section of theelectronic apparatus into which the information code is input.

The invention as set forth in claim 26 is characterized in that an inputdevice which inputs information into an electronic apparatus comprisesan operation section for inputting an information code into theelectronic apparatus, and an analog input section for inputting analoginformation into the electronic apparatus, wherein the operation sectionand analog input section are operable simultaneously.

The invention as set forth in claim 27 is characterized in that in theinvention according to any one of claims 1 to 26, the input devicefurther comprises fixing means for fixing a writing tool.

The invention as set forth in claim 28 is characterized in that in theinvention according to any one of claims 1 to 27, the hold member andthe operation section are so provided as to enable an input operationwith both hands.

The invention as set forth in claim 29 is characterized in that an inputdevice which inputs information into an electronic device comprises adisplay section which displays input information, and allowing a lenswhich magnifies the display section to be provided.

The invention as set forth in claim 30 is characterized in that in theinvention according to any one of claims 1 to 29, the input device has abuilt-in electronic-apparatus function.

Effects of the Invention

According to the invention as set forth in claim 1, the hold member isheld by one hand, and the operation section provided on that portionwhere the operation section is operable by a tip of a finger of the onehand holding the hold member changes into plural states by the fingertipof the one hand holding the hold member, and the plural states aredetected. Detected information is input into the electronic apparatus.Accordingly, because multiple pieces of information are detected by theoperation section and detection by the operation section causesinformation to be input into the electronic apparatus.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 2, it is possible tosurely operate the operation section by the tip of the finger of the onehand holding the hold member.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 3, it is possible toopen the main body and the hold member and input the information when inuse, and fold and close the main body and the hold member for storagewhen not in use.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 4, it is possible toopen the main body and the hold member in an approximately L shape andinput the information when in use, and fold and close the main body andthe hold member in an approximately parallelepiped shape for storagewhen not in use.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 5, it is possible toopen the main body and the hold member in an approximately L shape andinput the information when in use, and fold and close the main body andthe hold member in an approximately parallelepiped shape for storagewhen not in use, and replacement of the main body is possible at a lowcost because the main body is not provided with the operation section.

The invention as set forth in claim 6 can make easy the operation ofclosing the main body and the hold member, and the operation of openingthe main body and the hold member.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 7, it is possible tolock and unlock the main body and the hold member in open mode.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 8, it is possible tounlock the main body and the hold member in open mode by one hand.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 9, the operationsection on the top side of the main body is operable by a thumb, and theoperation section on the bottom side of the main body is operable by anindex finger, a middle finger, or the like.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 10, it can be operatedeasily without removing a finger.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 11, a finger is guidedin the operation direction at the time of operating the operationsection, thereby preventing a wrong operation.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 12, a plurality ofswitches can detect as many states as double the number of switches plusone.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 13, it is possible toinput information codes associated with the plural states of theoperation section.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 14, it is possible toeasily memorize information codes and make the input operation easy.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 15, as one informationcode is decided through the acceptance-decision operation, therebypreventing a wrong operation in the input operation.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 16, as an informationcode is not assigned to a state in which the operation section isdifficult to operate, the operability of the input operation can beimproved.

The invention as set forth in claim 17 can realize an input device whichdeals with multiple languages and multiple functions.

The invention as set forth in claim 18 can realize a universal inputdevice without limiting its applications.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 19, it is possible toeasily memorize information codes and make the input operation easy.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 20, the operation ofthe operation section can be made easy.

The invention as set forth in claim 21 can facilitate the operations ofthe operation section by the individual fingers easier.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 22, it is possible tomake the operations of the operation section by the individual fingersfurther easier.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 23, it is possible tomake the operations of the operation section by the individual fingersfurther easy.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 24, movement of theline of sight within the display section is reduced at the time of theinput operation, thus ensuring a fast input.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 25, there is nomovement of the line of sight between the display section of the inputdevice and the screen of the electronic apparatus at the time of theinput operation, thus ensuring a fast input.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 26, it is possible toinput analog information and an information code simultaneously.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 27, it is possible tocontinuously carry out the entry of an information code and a writingwork without changing the hold.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 28, it is possible toinput an information code faster.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 29, it is possible tomagnify and see the display section.

According to the invention as set forth in claim 30, the input devicecan be provided with the electronic-apparatus functions.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Embodiments of an input device according to the invention will now beexplained based on the accompanying drawings. FIGS. 1 to 17 are diagramsfor explaining a first embodiment of the input device according to theinvention.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the contour of an input device 10 ofthe embodiment. FIG. 1(a) is a top view of the input device 10 in openmode, FIG. 2(b) is a side view of the input device 10 in open mode, FIG.1(c) is a back view of the input device 10 in open mode, FIG. 1(d) is atop view of the input device 10 in closed mode, and FIG. 1(e) is a sideview of the input device 10 in closed mode. The input device 10generally comprises a main body 12, a base member 14 and a hold member16. The main body 12 is formed in an approximately parallelepiped shape.The base member 14 is formed in an approximately triangular shape inviewing from the vertical direction, and is formed in a semicircularshape in viewing from the horizontal direction. The main body 12 and thebase member 14 are coupled together in such a way that one end portionof the main body 12 and an apex edge of the triangular base member 14are rotatable around an axis A (rotational axis). The hold member 16 isformed in an approximately parallelepiped shape which inclines in thelongitudinal direction from the approximate center of the longitudinaldirection toward one end. The base member 14 and the hold member 16 arecoupled together in such a way that the bottom surface of the basemember 14 and the inclined surface of the hold member 16 are rotatablearound an axis B (rotational axis). When the input device 10 is in use,the main body 12 and the hold member 16 open into an approximately Lshape in such a way that an angle between the central line of the mainbody 12 in the longitudinal direction and the central line of the holdmember 16 in the longitudinal direction becomes roughly orthogonal (openmode). To hold the hold member 16 of the input device 10 by a righthand, the hold member 16 is rotated clockwise around the axis B to beopen, and to hold the hold member 16 of the input device 10 by a lefthand, the holding member 16 is rotated counterclockwise around the axisB to be open. When the input device 10 is not in use, the input deviceis folded in such a way that the main body 12 and the base member 14face the hold member 16 and they become a parallelepiped shape (closedmode). When the input device 10 is in use, a clearance W is formedbetween the main body 12 and the hold member 16.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a state where the input device 10 isheld by one hand. FIG. 2(a) is a top view of the input device 10, FIG.2(b) is a front view of the input device 10, FIG. 2(c) is a side view ofthe input device 10, FIG. 2(d) is a back view of the input device 10,and FIG. 2(e) is a diagram illustrating a hand. The input device 10 isfield by holding the hold member 16 by the finger cushion f of a thumb,a fourth finger d, and a little finger e of one hand. The thumb a, theindex finger b, and a middle finger c operate input keys to be discussedlater.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating opening/closing operation of the mainbody 12 and hold member 16 of the input device 10. FIG. 3(a) is a topview of the input device 10 in open mode, FIG. 3(b) is a side view ofthe input device 10 in open mode, FIG. 3(c) is a top view of the inputdevice 10 in intermediate mode between the open mode and the closedmode, FIG. 3(d) is a side view of the input device 10 in intermediatemode between the open mode and the closed mode, FIG. 3(e) is a top viewof the input device 10 in closed mode, and FIG. 3(f) is a side view ofthe input device 10 in closed mode. With the main body 12 and holdmember 16 of the input device 10 opened, rotations around the axis A andthe axis B are locked by a lock mechanism. Unlock pins 20 for unlockingthe rotations around the axis A and the axis B are provided at locationsin the base section 14 where those pins are operable by the tip of thethumb with the main body 12 and the hold member 16 opened. Pressing theunlock pins 20 and the neighborhood of the axis A by the tip of thethumb allows the hold member 16 to rotate counterclockwise around theaxis B, and the main body 12 and the hold member 16 to rotate inresponse to the counterclockwise rotation of the hold member 16 aroundthe axis B in a direction in which the main body 12 and the hold member16 face each other, thereby folding the input device 10. With the inputdevice 10 folded, rotation of the held hold member 16 around the axis Brotates the main body 12 around the axis A in response to the rotationof the hold member so that the input device becomes a usable state wherethe main body 12 and the hold member 16 are opened. An auxiliaryretainer 22 which rotates around an axis parallel to the axis A may beprovided on the base member 14. When the input device 10 is in use, theauxiliary retainer 22 is so formed as to open at a sharp angle to thebase member 14 and to fit the finger cushion of the thumb with the holdmember 16 held. When the input device 10 is not in use, the auxiliaryretainer 22 is folded together with the base member 14. The auxiliaryretainer is for enhancing the holding of the hold member 16, and may beformed in an appropriate shape and may be provided on an appropriateportion.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a mechanism whichinterlocks the rotation of the main body 12 of the input device 10around the axis A with the rotation of the hold member 16 around theaxis B. FIG. 4(a) is a side view of the input device 10 in open mode,FIG. 4(b) is a bottom view of the input device 10 in open mode, FIG.4(c) is a side view of the input device 10 in closed mode, and FIG. 4(d)is a bottom view of the input device 10 in closed mode. The axis A ofthe main body 12 is concentrically provided with a gear 30. The basemember 14 is provided with a pinion 31 which engages with the gear 30,and a rack 32 which engages with the pinion 31. The rack 32 is formedintegral with a cam plate 33. The cam plate 33 is so provided as to beslidable in the right and left direction to the base member 14. Theright end face of the cam plate 33 is so formed as to have flat portions33 a and an arcuate portion 33 b. The hold member 16 is provided withprotrusions 34. An explanation will now be given of an operation inwhich the rotation of the main body 12 of the input device 10 around theaxis A interlocks with the rotation of the hold member 16 around theaxis B in the above-described structure. When the hold member 16 isrotated counterclockwise around the axis B from the open mode in FIGS.4(a) and (b), the protrusions 34 rotate and move in a direction awayfrom the cam plate 33. A non-illustrated coil spring for urging the mainbody 12 and the hold member 16 in the direction of closing them isprovided between the main body 12 and the base member 14. Accordingly,the movement and the rotation of the protrusions 34 in the directionaway from the cam plate 33 cause the main body 12 to rotate around theaxis A in such a direction that the main body 12 and the hold member 16are closed. When the main body 12 rotates around the axis A in such adirection that the main body 12 and the hold member 16 are closed, thegear 30 rotates, and the rack 32 moves rightward via the pinion 31,providing the closed mode in FIGS. 4(c) and (d). When the hold member 16is rotated clockwise around the axis B from the closed mode in FIGS.4(c) and (d), the protrusions 34 come in contact with the flat portions33 a of the cam plate 33, and push the cam plate 33 leftward. Whenhaving pushed leftward, the cam plate 33 moves leftward, and the rack 32moves leftward. When the rack 32 moves leftward, the gear 30 rotates viathe pinion 31, and the main body 12 rotates around the axis A in such adirection that the main body 12 and the hold member 16 are opened,providing the open mode of FIGS. 4(a) and (b). With the input device 10be in open mode, the protrusions 34 contact the arcuate portion 33 b ofthe cam plate 33 to prevent the cam plate 33 from further movingleftward.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating another example of a mechanism whichinterlocks the rotation of the main body 12 of the input device 10around the axis A with the rotation of the hold member 16 around theaxis B. FIG. 5(a) is a side view of the input device 10 in open mode,FIG. 5(b) is a bottom view of the input device 10 in open mode, FIG.5(c) is a side view of the input device 10 in closed mode, and FIG. 5(d)is a bottom view of the input device 10 in closed mode. Cylindricalbodies 35 are provided coaxial to the axis A of the main body 12. Thebase member 14 is provided with a cam plate 36 slidable in the right andleft direction. The cylindrical bodies 35 and the cam plate 36 arecoupled together by steel belts 37. The left end face of the cam plate36 is so formed as to have flat portions 36 a and an arcuate portion 36b. The hold member 16 is provided with protrusions 38. An explanationwill now be given of an operation in which the rotation of the main body12 of the input device 10 around the axis A and the rotation of the holdmember 16 around the axis B are interlocked with each other in theabove-described structure. When the hold member 16 is rotatedcounterclockwise around the axis B in open mode from the open mode inFIGS. 5(a) and (b), the protrusions 38 rotate and move in the directionaway from the cam plate 36. A non-illustrated coil spring for urging themain body 12 and the hold member 16 in the direction of closing them isprovided between the main body 12 and the base member 14. Accordingly,when the protrusions 38 rotate and move in the direction away from thecam plate 36, the main body 12 rotates around the axis A in such adirection that the main body 12 and the hold member 16 are closed. Whenthe main body 12 rotates around the axis A in such a direction that themain body 12 and the hold member 16 are closed, the cylindrical bodies35 rotate so that the steel belts 37 are wound around the cylindricalbodies 35, the cam plate 36 moves leftward, providing the closed mode inFIGS. 5(c) and (d). When the hold member 16 is rotated clockwise aroundthe axis B from the closed mode in FIGS. 5(c) and (d), the protrusions38 come in contact with the flat portions 36 a of the cam plate 36, andpush the cam plate 36 rightward. When being pushed rightward, the camplate 36 moves rightward, and stretches the steel belts 37 from thecylindrical bodies 35. When the steel belts 37 are stretched, thecylindrical bodies 35 rotate, and the main body 12 rotates around theaxis A in such a direction that the main body 12 and the hold member 16are opened, providing the open mode in FIGS. 5(a) and (b). With theinput device 10 being in open mode, the protrusions 38 come in contactwith the arcuate portion 36 b of the cam plate 36 to prevent the camplate 36 from further moving rightward.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of input keys of theinput device 10. FIG. 6(a) is a top view of the input device 10, FIG.6(b) is a front view of the input device 10, FIG. 6(c) is a side view ofthe input device 10, and FIG. 6(d) is a back view of the input device10. Input keys 40 and 41 provided on the top side of the main body 12are operated by the tip of the thumb a. Regarding input keys 42 and 43provided on the bottom side of the main body 12, the input key 42 isoperated by the tip of the index finger b, and the input key 43 isoperated by the tip of the middle finger c.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the shapes of the input keys of theinput device 10. FIG. 7(a) is a top view of the input device 10, andFIG. 7(b) is a front view of the input device 10. Each of the input keys40, 41, 42, and 43 generally comprises a key top 50, switches 52, ashaft 53, and retainers 54. The key top 50 is formed in a cylindricalshape with its upper surface open. The opening of the key top 50 isformed in a shape into which the tips of the thumb, the index finger,and the middle finger fit, and in such a shape and/or of a material thatapplies frictional force to the fingertips. The switches 52 are mountedon a printed wiring board. The three switches 52 are provided around thecircumference of the key top 50. The key top 50 is retained by theretainers 54. The retainers 54 are coupled to the shaft 53. The lowerend of the shaft 53 is fixed to the printed wiring board. Applying forceto the key top 50 in the direction horizontal to the top and bottomsides of the main body 12 make the key top 50 incline in the directionvertical to the direction of action of the force, and the retainers 54holding the key top 50 turn on any one of the switches 52 or adjoiningtwo switches 52.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the principle of the input keys of theinput device 10. The direction of the force which is applied to theinput key from the fingertip in the operation of the input key andinformation are associated with each other. Accordingly, the bindingforce or the restoring force that acts in a predetermined direction isrequired for the input key to detect the predetermined direction and notto detect an intermediate direction. The switch is turned on and off bythe amount of the force in the predetermined direction applied from thefingertip to thereby decide information. In other words, it isstructured in such a way that the binding force or the restoring forceacts in the circumferential direction, and a switch reaction force actsin the radial direction. An explanation will now be given with astructural principal diagram of modeling the structure of the input key.The example in the figure is an input key 60 which detects isogonal sixdirections. The input key 60 has a three-dimensional cam structure whichis constituted by a mobile portion A, a restoring cam B, and a base C.The mobile portion A moves within the surface of the base C by anexternal operation. The restoring cam B is restricted within the surfaceof the base C, movable in parallel in the direction vertical to thesurface of the base C, and pressed against the mobile portion A by arestoring spring. The restoring cam B has triangular pyramid protrusionswhich protrude in the isogonal six directions and take those isogonalsix directions as the individual vertexes. Six poles protrude from themobile portion A, and contact the leading ends of the six triangularpyramid protrusions of the restoring cam B in a point-contact manner.Contact portions of the restoring cam B and the poles have sufficientstrength and abrasion resistance, and friction shall be negligible. Themobile portion A avoids the triangular pyramid protrusions of therestoring cam B, and can smoothly move in parallel in the sixdirections. In a case where the mobile portion A moves in anintermediate direction other than the six directions, the inclinedsurfaces of the triangular pyramid protrusions are pressed down. Arestoring-spring reaction force originating that pressing pushes theleading ends of the poles of the mobile portion A, and is applied in theinclined-surface direction. Accordingly, this will ensure the originalsmooth movement of the mobile portion A in the parallel-movementdirection. Although not illustrated in the figures, switches arerespectively provided in the six directions, and forces act for turningoff the switches. If the force in the radial direction becomes largerthan a predetermined value, the switch is turned on. The cumulativeforce of a cam reaction force from the restoring cam B and the switchreaction force becomes a reaction force against an external operation ofthe mobile portion A. The reaction force of the restoring cam B can bedivided into a component in the radial direction and a component in thecircumferential direction. The force in the radial direction is in thesame direction as that of the switch reaction force. The force in thecircumferential direction acts as a force for restricting the directionof movement of the mobile portion A. Regarding operational feelings ofthe input key 60, only the feelings of turning on/off the switches arefelt in the six directions in which the switches are provided. Withregard to the forces in the directions other than those six directions,the restoring force by the restoring spring and the switch reactionforce are felt. Although the number of directions in the example is six,it may take other numbers, and those directions may not be isogonal foreach direction. As explained above, according to the input key 60, evenif the direction of the force applied from the fingertip at the time ofoperation slightly differs from an intended direction, the force isdirected to the predetermined direction, and detection of intendedinformation by a rough operational feeling is possible.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the structures of the input keys of theinput device 10. FIG. 9(a) is a cross sectional view of the input keys40, 41, 42, and 43 in the direction vertical to the top side of the mainbody 12, FIG. 9(b) is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of thethree switches, FIG. 9(c) is a diagram illustrating an area where aswitch A is turned on, and FIG. 9(d) is a diagram illustrating the areawhere one switch or two switches are turned on. An explanation will nowbe given of a method for detecting six states of the input keys 40, 41,42, and 43 by the three switches. The three switches which can operatein the Z-direction are provided underneath the key top 50. Operating thekey top 50 turns on one of the three switches or two of the switchessimultaneously, and the direction of the force applied to the key top 50from the fingertip is detected. All the switches are normally turnedoff. The key top 50 can slightly swing around a supporting point Pwithout rotating in the horizontal plane. When the key top 50 is pressedleftward in the figure by the fingertip, the switch A is turned on. Whenit is pressed toward the lower left, the switch A and the switch B aresimultaneously turned on. This enables detections of seven states of theinput key including a state where the input key is not operated by thecombinations of the ON/OFF states of the three switches. Thesimultaneous operation of the input keys by the three finger tipsenables the detections of 7×7×7=343 states of the input keys. Next, anexplanation will be given of the balance of the forces applied to theinput keys. An operational force received by the key top 50 isrepresented by a horizontal force Fh. This force with a supporting-forcereaction force is balanced with a moment around the supporting point P.As the key top is pressed in the direction between the switch A and theswitch B by the horizontal force Fh, the switch A and the switch Bsupport the force, so that the horizontal force Fh is considered as theresultant force of Fa and Fb. A change in force due to the displacementof the key top 50 is neglected. Regardless of the ON/OFF of the switchB, the switch A is turned on/off depending on whether or not thecomponent Fa of the horizontal force Fh in the direction of the switch Abecomes greater than a threshold, so that the switch A is turned on ifthere is a vector force in the hatched area. Likewise, in the case wherethe direction of the horizontal force Fh is located between the switch Aand the switch C, the oblique grid-like area is to be the ON area of theswitch A. The same is true of the ON areas of the other switches B andC. In the vertical hatching area where two areas overlap each other, thetwo switches are turned on. In the horizontal hatching area where noareas overlap, a single switch is turned on. Each switch is turnedon/off by the direction and magnitude of the force which is applied tothe key top 50.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the main body12. The main body generally comprises the input keys 40, 41, 42, and 43,a signal input circuit 81 which receives on/off signals of theindividual input keys, performs a process like elimination of chatteringon those signals, and sends the processed signals toward an MPU 80, amemory device 82 which is connected to the MPU 80, and storesinformation code data and guidance screen data for guiding theoperations of the individual input keys, a display apparatus 84 which isconnected to the MPU 80, displays the information code and the operationstatuses of the individual input keys to guide the operations thereof,and is provided on the top side of the main body 12, an input/outputsection 86 which is connected to the MPU 80, and inputs a decidedinformation code into the electronic apparatus, and a power source 88which supplies power to the main body 12.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a method of deciding an informationcode by the input keys. In the following explanation, a first state is astate where the key tops 50 of the input keys 40, 41, 42, and 43 arepressed in the lower left direction to turn on the switches 52, a secondstate is a state where those key tops are pressed in the downwarddirection to turn on the switches 52, a third state is a state wherethose key tops are pressed in the lower right direction to turn on theswitches 52, a fourth state is a state where those key tops are pressedin the upper right direction to turn on the switches 52, a fifth stateis a state where those key tops are pressed in the upward direction toturn on the switches 52, a sixth state is a state where those key topsare pressed upper right direction to turn on the switches 52, and a nullstate is a sate where no key top 50 is pressed. First, the input key 43corresponding to the tip of the middle finger is operated to select onesubgroup from subgroups 0 to 3 of each information code group (firststage). The selection of the subgroup 1 corresponds to the first orsixth state, the selection of the subgroup 2 corresponds to the secondor third state, the selection of the subgroup 3 corresponds to thefourth or fifth state, and the selection of the subgroup 0 correspondsto the null state. Next, the input key 42 corresponding to the tip ofthe index finger is operated to select one row from five rows of thesubgroup selected by the middle finger (rows 0 to 5 in case of thesubgroup 0, rows 10 to 15 in case of the subgroup 1, rows 20 to 25 incase of the subgroup 2, and rows 30 to 35 in case of the subgroup 3) ofeach information code group (second stage). The selections of the rows1, 11, 21, and 31 correspond to the first or sixth state, the selectionsof the rows 2, 12, 22, and 32 correspond to the second state, theselections of the rows 3, 13, 23, and 33 correspond to the third orfourth state, the selections of the rows 5, 15, 25, and 35 correspond tothe fifth state, and the selections of the rows 0, 10, 20, and 30correspond to the null state. Next, the input key 40 corresponding tothe tip of the thumb is operated to select one column from six columnsof the row selected by the index finger of each information code group(third stage). The selection of a column 1 corresponds to the fourthstate, the selection of a column 2 corresponds to the third state, theselection of the column 3 corresponds to the second state, the selectionof the column 4 corresponds to the first state, the selection of thecolumn 5 corresponds to the sixth state, and the selection of the column6 corresponds to the fifth state. An input candidate code is selectedthrough the above-described operations. Even if all of the input keysare simultaneously operated, shifts of the states of the individual keysdo not synchronize with one another, and the other states are temporaryskipped before the operation state turns to be an intended state byoperating the individual input keys. It is necessary to decideinformation codes by operating the individual keys at the intendedstates. Accordingly, a predetermined state of the input key is preset,and the information code corresponding to a state right before the inputkey becomes the predetermined state is taken as a decided informationcode. For example, changing the state of the input key 40 operated bythe tip of the thumb into a non-operation state (row 0) is taken as atiming of deciding the information code. In the operation of the inputkey 40 by the tip of the thumb in the third stage, it is possible tocontinuously carry out selection of an input candidate code and anacceptance-decision operation. Accordingly, in a case where theacceptance-decision operation is not carried out by operating the inputkey 40 by the tip of the thumb, the selected input candidate code may bereplaced, and the information code group selected by operating the inputkeys 42 and 43 by the tips of the index and middle fingers may bereplaced. The information code groups corresponding to the individualinput keys are not limited to those above, and the information codegroups corresponding to the individual input keys may be changed.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating the information codes which are notused as the individual information codes in an information code table.The information codes which are not used as the individual informationcodes in the information code table are the rows 31, 32, and 35 of thesubgroup 3. This is because that it is difficult to put force on thetips of the index and middle fingers to input those information codes,making it difficult to displace the input keys 42 and 43 in such a wayas to correspond to the information codes.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a Japanese information code table. Therows of HIRAGANA (row of “A”, row of “KA”, and the like) roughlycorrespond to the rows which are selected by operating the input keys 42and 43 by the tips of the index and middle fingers. In this case, therows of HIRAGANA frequently used correspond to the rows which are easyto select by operating the input keys 42 and 43 by the tips of the indexand middle fingers. The columns of HIRAGANA (for example, “A”, “I”, “U”,“E”, “O”, and “tsu” in case of the row of “A”) correspond to the columnswhich are selected by operating the input key 40 by the tip of thethumb.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating examples of the information codes.Replacement codes for information code tables are allocated to some ofthe information code tables, so that when the replacement codes areselected, the information code tables are replaced. Language characterssuch as “kana”, “KANA”, “alphanumeric” and the like or functionscorresponding to the electronic apparatus can be considered as theinformation code tables. The information code data and the guidancescreen data can be externally read out from the memory device 82.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a Japanese-input screenwhich is displayed on the display apparatus 84. The screen isconstituted by fields of “1. Selection guidance table”, “2. Candidatetable”, “3. Input candidate character”, “4. Input decision character”,and “5. Character series monitor”.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating character input procedures andexamples of the screens of the display apparatus which are displayedthen. FIG. 16(a) is a diagram illustrating the screens of the displayapparatus 84 corresponding to the character input procedures, and FIG.16(b) is a flowchart showing the character input procedures. First, theinput key 43 corresponding to the tip of the middle finger is operatedto select a subgroup of the selection guidance table (S1). When thesubgroup is selected, the frame of the selected subgroup is emphaticallydisplayed. Next, the input key 42 corresponding to the tip of the indexfinger is operated to select a row in the subgroup (S2). When the row isselected, the colors of the characters in the selected row are changedand emphatically displayed, and a list of the characters in each columnis displayed on the candidate table. Next, the input key 40corresponding to the tip of the thumb is operated to select a column inthe candidate table (S3). When the column of candidates is selected, thecolor of a selected character is changed and emphatically displayed, andan input candidate character is displayed. The above-described ordersmay be simultaneous, or the orders may be interchanged with one another.Next, with the input key 40 corresponding to the thumb being in anon-operated state, this becomes the acceptance-decision operation, andthe input candidate character displayed just before is decided as aninput character, displayed in the input decision character field, andadded in the character series monitor (S4). The arrangement of thesubgroups of the selection guidance table, the arrangement of the rowsin the selection guidance table, and the arrangement of the columns ofthe candidate table are roughly match the directions of forces which areapplied to the input keys. The candidate table is so arranged as tosurround the input candidate character, and the input decision characterfield is arranged adjacent to the input candidate character table.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a case where anelectronic apparatus is remotely operated by the input device 10. In acase where the electronic apparatus is remotely operated by the inputdevice 10, all of or a part of the display of the display apparatus 84of the input device 10 is displayed on a screen 90 of the electronicapparatus. A personal computer or the like can be considered as theelectronic apparatus.

According to the embodiment, the hold member 16 is held by one hand, theinput keys which are provided on that portion where the input keys areoperable by the plural fingertips of the one hand holding the holdmember 16 are changed into the plural states by the plural fingertips ofthe one hand holding the hold member 16, and the plural states aredetected. The information codes corresponding to the detected signalsare input into the electronic apparatus. Accordingly, since the inputkeys detect the multiple signals, and the information codes are inputinto the electronic apparatus by the detection operations of the inputkeys, it is possible to input the multiple information codes fast withthe input device carried by one hand.

According to the embodiment, as the input device are opened into anapproximately L shape in such a way that the angle between the centralaxis of the main body 12 in the longitudinal direction and the centralaxis of the hold member 16 becomes roughly orthogonal, the displaydevice 84 can be turned in the direction of the line of sight when theinput device 10 is held.

According to the embodiment, since the space of the base member 14 isformed between the main body 12 and the hold member 16 when the inputdevice 10 is used, the fourth finger fits into the space of the basemember 14 when the hold member is held by the finger cushion of thethumb, the fourth finger and the little finger, thereby allowing the tipof the middle finger to direct further downward.

According to the embodiment, as the unlock pins 20 and the neighborhoodof the axis A are depressed by the tip of the thumb, the hold member 16rotates around the axis B, and the main body 12 and the hold member 16rotate around the axis A in the direction in which the main body 12 andthe hold member 16 face each other in response to the rotation of thehold member 16 around the axis B, thereby folding the input device 10,thus and facilitating the operation for storage for portability.

According to the embodiment, the rotation of the hold member 16 aroundthe axis B from the state where the input device 10 is folded makes theinput device 10 be in the use state, thus facilitating the initiation ofentry from the storage state for portability.

According to the embodiment, as the base member 14 is provided with theauxiliary retainer 22 into which the finger cushion of the thumb fitswith the hold member 16 held, the input device 10 can be firmly held.

According to the embodiment, as the input keys are provided on the topand bottom sides of the main body 12, the holding of the hold member bythe finger cushion of the thumb, the fourth finger, and the littlefinger enables the operations of the input keys 40 and 41 on the topside of the main body 12 by the tip of the thumb, and the operations ofthe input keys 42 and 43 on the bottom side of the main body 12 by thetips of the index and middle fingers.

According to the embodiment, since the opening of the key top 50 of theinput key is formed in a shape into which the tips of the thumb, indexfinger and middle finger fit, and in such a shape and/or of a materialthat applies frictional force to the fingers, it is possible to operatethe input keys without removing the fingers from the input keys.

According to the embodiment, the input key is restorable in thecircumferential direction by the three-dimensional cam structure whichcontrols the direction of the parallel movement, so that the input key,when operated, is guided in the operational direction, therebypreventing a wrong operation.

According to the embodiment, since the three switches operable in theZ-direction are mounted underneath the key top 50, and the switches arestructured in such a way that a single switch or two switches aresimultaneously turned on/off, seven positions can be detected by thethree switches.

According to the embodiment, because a candidate table is selectedfirst, an input candidate code is selected next, then an input code isdecided through the acceptance-decision operation, and the intermediatestate on which the acceptance-decision operation is not performed isneglected, a wrong operation in the input operation can be surelyprevented.

According to the embodiment, as a single information code is notallocated to the combination that makes the operations of the input keysby the individual fingertips difficult, the operability in the inputoperation can be improved.

According to the embodiment, since the rows of HIRAGANA roughlycorrespond to the rows to be selected through the operations of theinput keys 42 and 43 by the tips of the index and middle fingers, andthe columns of HIRAGANA correspond to the columns to be selected throughthe operation of the input key 40 by the tip of the thumb, it is easy tomemorize the locations of the information codes.

According to the embodiment, since the information code table isreplaceable, it is possible to realize the input device which arecompatible with multiple languages and multiple functions.

According to the embodiment, since the information code data and theguidance screen data are externally readable from the memory device 82,interlocking with an arbitrary apparatus is enabled, thereby providing aprogrammable input device.

According to the embodiment, the selection guidance table correspondingto the subgroups and rows of the information code table, the candidatetable corresponding to the columns of the information code table, theinput candidate characters and the input decision characters aredisplayed, thus facilitating the operations of the input keys by theindividual fingertips.

According to the embodiment, the arrangement of the subgroups of theselection guidance table, the arrangement of the rows in the subgroupsof the selection guidance table, and the arrangement of the columns ofthe candidate table are roughly match with the directions of the forceswhich are applied to the input keys, thus facilitating the operations ofthe input keys by the individual fingertips further.

According to the embodiment, the candidate table is so arranged as tosurround the input candidate character, and the input-decision-characterfield is arranged adjacent to the candidate table, so that the line ofsight does not shift at the time of the input operation, therebyensuring fast input.

Further, according to the embodiment, in a case where the electronicapparatus is remotely operated by the input device 10, all of or a partof the display of the display apparatus 84 of the input device 10 isdisplayed on the screen of the electronic device, so that the line ofsight does not shift between the display apparatus 84 of the inputdevice 10 and the screen of the electronic apparatus at the time of theinput operation, thereby ensuring fast input.

In the embodiment, the input keys 40, 41, 42, 43, and 60 correspond tothe “operation section” as set forth in the claims, the MPU 80 and thememory device 82 correspond to the “processor” as set forth in theclaims, and the display apparatus 84 corresponds to the “displaysection” as set forth in the claims.

Next, a second embodiment of the input device according to the inventionwill be explained. FIGS. 18 and 19 are diagrams for explaining thesecond embodiment of the input device of the invention. In theembodiment, the same structure portions as those of the first embodimentwill be denoted by the same reference numbers to avoid repeating theirdescriptions.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an input device 100 of the embodiment.FIG. 18(a) is a front view of the input device 100, FIG. 18(b) is a backview thereof, and FIG. 18(c) is a front view thereof in a case where amain body 102 is provided with a mouse 107. The input device 100 is theinput device 10 including a main body 12 provided with analog inputsections. Analog data input devices such as a mouse, a pointing stick, apointing pad, a dial rotary encoder, a joystick, and an optical sensorare considered as the analog input sections. The input device 100 has amain body 102 which is the main body 12 provided with the analog inputsections. The main body 102 is provided with one pointing stick and twodial rotary encoders 105 on its top side, and two pointing sticks 104,one dial rotary encoder 105 and one pointing pad 106 on its bottom side.The analog input sections on the top side of the main body 102 are laidout at those locations where those analog input sections are operable bya tip of a thumb of one hand holding the hold member 16. The analoginput sections on the bottom side are laid out at locations where theanalog input sections are operable by a tip of an index or middle fingerof the one hand holding the hold member 16. A mouse 107 is provided onthe lower portion of the main body 102 or the lower portion of the holdmember 16. The analog input sections are used for inputting analog datalike coordinate data. In a case where the mouse 107 and the analog inputsections on the substrate of the main body 102 are used in combinationwith one another, it is possible to input rough coordinate data by themouse 107, and input precision coordinate data by the analog inputsections on the substrate of the main body 102.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multidimensionalanalog input by the input device 100. Six or more dimensions aresimultaneously controlled by the mouse 107 provided on the lower portionof the main body 102, the analog input sections provided on the top sideof the main body 102, and the analog input sections provided on thebottom side of the main body 102.

According to the embodiment, because the input device 100 has the analoginput sections, it is possible to input analog data and an informationcode simultaneously.

According to the embodiment, it is possible to carry out asix-dimensional input of locations and directions, and this makes itpossible to control the location and posture of an object in a space inreal time.

Next, a third embodiment of the input device according to the inventionwill be explained. FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining the thirdembodiment of the input device of the invention. The same structureportions as those of the first embodiment will be denoted by the samereference numbers to avoid repeating their descriptions.

FIG. 20 is the diagram illustrating an input device 110 of theembodiment. The input device 110 is the input device 10 of the firstembodiment on which fixing means for fixing a writing tool 112 isprovided. The writing tool 112 may be a generally-used writing tool, ormay be with only a writing tip exclusive for the input device 110.

According to the embodiment, because the fixing means for fixing thewriting tool 112 is provided on the input device 110, it is possible tocontinuously carry out entry of an information code and a writing workwithout changing the hold.

Next, a fourth embodiment of the input device according to the inventionwill be explained. FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining the fourthembodiment of the input device according to the invention. In theembodiment, the same structure portions as those of the first embodimentwill be denoted by the same reference numbers to avoid repeating theirdescriptions.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating input devices 120 and 122 of theembodiment. FIG. 21(a) is the diagram illustrating the input device 120,and FIG. 21(b) is the diagram illustrating the input device 122. Theinput device 120 is symmetrically provided with the base sections 14,the hold members 16, and the input keys 40, 41, 42, and 43. The inputdevice 122 is the input devices 10 which are symmetrically provided eachother.

According to the embodiment, because the input devices 120 and 122 canbe operated by both hands, it is possible to input information codesfurther fast.

Next, a fifth embodiment of the input device according to the inventionwill be explained. FIG. 22 is a diagram for explaining the fifthembodiment of the input device according to the invention. In theembodiment, the same structure portions as those of the first embodimentwill be denoted by the same reference numbers to avoid repeating theirexplanations.

FIG. 22 is the diagram illustrating an input device 130 of theembodiment. The input device 130 is the input device 10 of the firstembodiment provided with a lens which magnifies the display apparatus84. The lens is the Fresnel lens l32 which has an equal size to the topside of the main body 12 of the input device 10. The Fresnel lens 132 iscoupled to the main body 12 through a pantograph structure and put inthe top side of the main body 12, or the Fresnel lens is couple to themain body 12 by two parallel axes and put in the bottom side of the mainbody 12. In coming close to the Fresnel lens and seeing the displayapparatus 84, it is possible to enlarge the angle of view in comparisonwith directly seeing the display apparatus.

According to the embodiment, because the input device 130 is providedwith the Fresnel lens 132 which magnifies the display apparatus 84, itis possible to see the enlarged display apparatus 84.

Next, a sixth embodiment of the input device according to the inventionwill be explained. FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating the six embodimentof the input device of the invention. In the embodiment, the samestructure portions as those of the first embodiment will be denoted bythe same reference numbers to avoid repeating their explanations.

FIG. 23 is the diagram illustrating an input device 140 of theembodiment. FIG. 23(a) is a front view of the input device 140 in openmode, and FIG. 23(b) is a front view of the input device 140 in closedmode. The input device 140 generally comprises a main body 142 and ahold member 144 which is held by one hand. The main body 142 is formedin an approximately parallelepiped shape. The right end portion of themain body 142 inclines in such a way that the lower end of the right endportion locates at the oblique lower end of the upper end thereof. Thehold member 144 is formed in an approximately parallelepiped shape. Theupper end portion of the hold member 142 inclines in such a way that theleft end of the upper end portion locates at the oblique lower end ofthe right end thereof. The right end portion of the main body 142 andthe upper end portion of the hold member 144 are coupled together by anaxis 146 which is roughly parallel to the right end portion of the mainbody 142. The main body 142 can have the same structure and function asthose of the main body 12 of the first embodiment. The main body 142 andthe hold member 144 rotate around the axis 146, and make the inputdevice changeable into open mode of an approximately L shape in whichthe hold member 144 can be so held as to make non-illustrated input keysof the main body 142 operable, and closed mode of an approximatelyparallelepiped shape in which the main body 142 and the hold member 144are folded over each other. The input device 140 is for a right handwhich hold the hold member 144, but the input device for a left hand canbe realized by coupling the upper end portion of the hold member to theleft end portion of the main body so that the hold member is to be heldby the left hand.

According to the embodiment, since the input device 140 is changeableinto open mode of the approximately L shape in which the hold member 144can be so held as to make non-illustrated input keys of the main body142 operable, and closed mode of the approximately parallelepiped shapein which the main body 142 and the hold member 144 are folded over eachother, it is possible to open the main body 142 and the hold member 144in the approximately L shape and input the information codes when inuse, and fold and close the main body 142 and the hold member 144 in theapproximately parallelepiped shape for storage when not in use.

Next, a seventh embodiment of the input device according to theinvention will be explained. FIG. 24 is a diagram for explaining theseventh embodiment of the input device of the invention. In theembodiment, the same structure portions as those of the first embodimentwill be denoted by the same reference numbers to avoid repeating theirexplanations.

FIG. 24 is the diagram illustrating an input device 150 of theembodiment. FIG. 24(a) is a front view of the input device 150 in openmode, and FIG. 24(b) is a front view of the input device 150 in closedmode. The input device 150 generally comprises a main body 152 and ahold member 154 which is held by one hand. Both of the main body 152 andhold member 154 are formed in approximately parallelepiped shapes. Oneend portion of the main body 152 and one end portion of the hold member154 are coupled together by an axis 156 which is roughly vertical to thefront side of eth main body 152. The main body 152 can have the samestructure and function as those of the main body 12 of the firstembodiment. The main body 152 and the hold member 154 rotate around theaxis 156 and changeable into open mode of an approximately L shape inwhich the hold member 154 can be so held as to make non-illustratedinput keys of the main body 152 operable, and closed mode of anapproximately parallelepiped shape in which the main body 152 and thehold member 154 are folded over each other. Open mode in which the holdmember 154 is rotated counterclockwise to make the input device be inthe approximately L shape from closed mode is a state where it ispossible to do the input operation by the right hand, and open mode inwhich the hold member 154 is rotated clockwise to make the input devicebe in the approximately L shape from closed mode is a state where it ispossible to do the input operation by the left hand.

According to the embodiment, since the input device 150 is changeableinto open mode of the approximately L shape in which the hold member 154can be so held as to make non-illustrated input keys of the main body152 operable, and closed mode of the approximately parallelepiped shapein which the main body 152 and the hold member 154 are folded over eachother, it is possible to open the main body 152 and the hold member 154in the approximately L shape and input the information codes when inuse, and fold and close the main body 152 and the hold member 154 in theapproximately parallelepiped shape for storage when not in use.

Next, an eighth embodiment of the input device according to theinvention will be explained. FIG. 25 is a diagram for explaining theeighth embodiment of the input device of the invention. In theembodiment, the same structure portions as those of the first embodimentwill be denoted by the same reference numbers to avoid repeating theirexplanations.

FIG. 25 is the diagram illustrating an input device 160 of theembodiment. FIG. 25(a) is the diagram of the input device 160 in openmode, and FIG. 25(b) is a front view of the input device 160 in closedmode. The input device 160 generally comprises a main body 162, a holdmember 164 which is held by one hand, and a base member 166 whichrotatably couples the main body 162 with the hold member 164, and hasthe input keys 40, 42 and 43 of the main body 12 of the firstembodiment. The main body 162 and the base member 167 are coupledtogether by an axis 170 which is roughly vertical to the top side of hehold member. The hold member 164 and the base member 166 are coupledtogether by an axis 170 which is roughly vertical to the top side of thehold member 164. The main body 162 and the hold member 164 rotate aroundthe axis 168 and the axis 170, respectively, and changeable into openmode of an approximately L shape in which the hold member 154 can be soheld as to make the input keys 40, 42, and 43 of the base member 166operable, and closed mode of an approximately parallelepiped shape inwhich the main body 162, the hold member 164 and the base member 166 arefolded over one another. Open mode in which the base member 166 and thehold member 164 are rotated in the front direction and the hold member164 is rotated clockwise to make the input device be in theapproximately L shape from closed mode is a state where it is possibleto do the input operation by the right hand, and open mode in which thebase member 166 and the hold member 164 are rotated in the frontdirection and the hold member 164 is rotated counterclockwise to makethe input device be in the approximately L shape from closed mode is astate where it is possible to do the input operation by the left hand.

According to the embodiment, since the input device 160 is changeableinto open mode of the approximately L shape in which the hold member 164can be so held as to make the input keys 40, 42, and 43 operable, andclosed mode of the approximately parallelepiped shape in which the mainbody 162, the hold member 164 and the base member 166 are folded overone another, it is possible to open the main body 162 and the holdmember 164 in the approximately L shape and input the information codeswhen in use, and the main body 162 and fold and close the hold member164 in the approximately parallelepiped shape for storage when not inuse. Since the input keys 40, 42, and 43 are not provided on the mainbody 162, it is possible to replace the main body 162 at a low cost.

The input device of the invention can be provided withelectronic-apparatus functions. A cellular-phone function, ageneral-purpose-remote-controller function, an electronic-dictionaryfunction, a PDA function, an electronic-instrument function, amachine-controlling-apparatus function and the like can be considered asthe electronic-apparatus functions.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating the contour of a first embodiment of aninput device according to the invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a state where the input device in FIG.1 is held by one hand.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an opening/closing operation of a mainbody and a hold member of the input device in FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a mechanism whichinterlocks the rotation of the main body of the input device in FIG. 1around an axis A with the rotation of the hold member around an axis B.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating another example of a mechanism whichinterlocks the rotation of the main body of the input device in FIG. 1around the axis A with the rotation of the hold member around the axisB.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of input keys of theinput device in FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating the shape of the input key of the inputdevice in FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the principle of the input key of theinput device in FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the structure of the input key of theinput device in FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating the structure of the main bodyof the input device in FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a method of deciding input codes madeby the input keys of the input device in FIG. 1.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating those input codes in an input codetable of the input device of FIG. 1 which are not used.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a Japanese input code table of theinput device in FIG. 1.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating examples of the input codes for theinput device in FIG. 1.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a Japanese input screenwhich is displayed on a display apparatus of the input device in FIG. 1.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating character input procedures of theinput device in FIG. 1, and examples of the screens of the displayapparatus displayed then.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a case where anelectronic apparatus is remotely controlled by the input device in FIG.1.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an input device according to a secondembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of multidimensional analoginput of the input device in FIG. 16.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an input device according to a thirdembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an input device according to a fourthembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an input device according to a fifthembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an input device according to a sixthembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an input device according to a seventhembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an input device according to an eighthembodiment of the invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE REFERENCE NUMBERS

-   10 Input Device-   12 Main Body-   14 Base Member-   16 Hold Member-   40, 41, 42, 43 Input keys-   84 Display Apparatus

1. An input device which inputs information into an electronicapparatus, comprising: a hold member which is held by one hand; and anoperation section which is provided on that portion where said operationsection is operable by a tip of a finger of said one hand holding saidhold member, changes into plural states when operated with said tip ofsaid finger unreleased, and is for inputting information into saidelectronic apparatus which detects said plural states.
 2. The inputdevice according to claim 1, wherein said operation section is providedapproximately perpendicular to an up and down direction of said holdmember. 3.-5. (canceled)
 6. The input device according to claim 1,wherein said hold member is coupled to a main body having said operationsection, said main body and said hold member are coupled together via abase member, said main body and said hold member are rotatably coupledto said base member, and rotation of the rotational axis at which saidmain body and said base member are coupled together and rotation of therotation axis at which said hold member and said base member are coupledtogether are interlocked with each other. 7.-8. (canceled)
 9. The inputdevice according to claim 1, wherein said operation section is providedon top and bottom sides of said main body.
 10. The input deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein said operation section is formed in ashape into which a finger tip fits.
 11. The input device according toclaim 1, wherein said operation section is so formed as to be restrictedin parallel movement in accordance with said plural states, and isrestorable in a circumferential direction.
 12. The input deviceaccording to claim 1, wherein said operation section has a plurality ofswitches, and detects said plural states with one of or said pluralityof switches.
 13. An input device which inputs information into anelectronic apparatus, comprising: an operation section which changesinto plural states and is for inputting information into said electronicapparatus which detects said plural states; and a processor whichallocates information codes in association with said plural states ofsaid operation section, wherein said information codes allocated by saidprocessor are input into said electronic apparatus.
 14. The input deviceaccording to claim 13, wherein said processor has groups of informationcodes which are hierarchized in association with said operation sectionand associated with said plural states of said operation section, anddetermines one information code based on selection of one group ofinformation codes by detecting any of said plural states of saidoperation section.
 15. The input device according to claim 14, whereinsaid processor detects one information code by an acceptance-decisionoperation at said operation section.
 16. (canceled)
 17. An input devicewhich inputs information into an electronic apparatus, comprising: anoperation section which changes into plural states, and is for inputtinginformation into said electronic apparatus which detects said pluralstates; and a processor which allocates information codes in associationwith said plural states of said operation sections, wherein saidprocessor has information codes for replacing some of said informationcodes. 18.-19. (canceled)
 20. The input device according to claim 13,comprising a display section which displays said plural states of saidoperation section, or associations of said plural states of saidoperation section with said information codes allocated by saidprocessor.
 21. The input device according to claim 20, wherein saiddisplay section displays said groups of information codes.
 22. The inputdevice according to claim 21, wherein said display section displays adirection of a force to be applied to a finger tip for operating saidoperation section and an arrangement of said groups of information codesin association with each other.
 23. The input device according to claim21, wherein said display section emphatically displays said selectedgroup of information codes.
 24. The input device according to any claim21, wherein said display section aggregates a candidate table comprisingsaid groups of information codes at a bottom layer, aninput-candidate-information code selected from said candidate table, andinput-decision-information code decided by said acceptance-decisionoperation and displays them.
 25. The input device according to claim 20,wherein all of or a part of a display of said display section isdisplayed on a display section of said electronic apparatus into whichsaid information code is input.
 26. The input device according to claim20, comprising an analog input section for inputting analog informationinto an electronic apparatus, wherein said operation section and analoginput section are operable simultaneously.
 27. (canceled)
 28. The inputdevice according to claim 1, wherein said hold member and said operationsection are so provided as to enable an input operation with both hands.29. The input device according to claim 1, comprising a display sectionwhich displays input information, and allowing a lens which magnifiessaid display section to be provided.
 30. (canceled)